- Preparing for Pregnancy
- Diet and Exercise
- Emotional Wellbeing
- Health
- Antenatal Care
- Preganancy at 1-3 Weeks
- Preganancy at 4 Weeks
- Preganancy at 5 Weeks
- Preganancy at 6 Weeks
- Preganancy at 7 Weeks
- Preganancy at 8 Weeks
- Preganancy at 9 Weeks
- Preganancy at 10 Weeks
- Preganancy at 11 Weeks
- Preganancy at 12 Weeks
- Preganancy at 13 Weeks
- Preganancy at 14 Weeks
- Preganancy at 15 Weeks
- Preganancy at 16 Weeks
- Preganancy at 17 Weeks
- Preganancy at 18 Weeks
- Preganancy at 19 Weeks
- Preganancy at 20 Weeks
- Preganancy at 21 Weeks
- Preganancy at 22 Weeks
- Preganancy at 23 Weeks
- Preganancy at 24 Weeks
- Preganancy at 25 Weeks
- Preganancy at 26 Weeks
- Preganancy at 27 Weeks
- Preganancy at 28 Weeks
- Preganancy at 29 Weeks
- Preganancy at 30 Weeks
- Preganancy at 31 Weeks
- Preganancy at 32 Weeks
- Preganancy at 33 Weeks
- Preganancy at 34 Weeks
- Preganancy at 35 Weeks
- Preganancy at 36 Weeks
- Preganancy at 37 Weeks
- Preganancy at 38 Weeks
- Preganancy at 39 Weeks
- Preganancy at 40 Weeks
- Labour and Birth
- The First Few Days
Pregnancy at 30 Weeks
Although you are probably counting the days to the birth now, you may also become anxious as the date becomes closer and more of a reality. Many women worry that they may go into premature labour, especially if they have particularly strong Braxton Hicks tightenings. These can be uncomfortable but should never be painful.
Development
If your baby was born at this stage, she would have an excellent chance of survival, although her immune system and lungs are still immature and will continue to develop. Your placenta has been transmitting your antibodies to your baby, providing her with some immunity against infections and diseases. By breastfeeding, you will continue to provide her with antibodies after she is born.
Appearance
Your baby will probably be lying head down, with her knees curled up into her chest. She is becoming plumper now, so her skin is looking smooth, but she is still covered in greasy, white vernix.
Movement
Your baby will still be able to stretch out and kick you or punch against the wall of your uterus. You may be able to recognize which way she is lying and the different parts of her body as she moves. You may even feel a 'scratching'sensation as she moves her fingers against the wall of your uterus. Do not worry about any possible injury to either you or the baby. She is surrounded by fluid, which protects you both and lessens the impact of any strong movements.
Introduce your bump to your other children - she will already have been listening to their voices and so will recognize them when she arrives in the outside world. Interest your older child in your bump and explain that there is a new younger brother or sister on the way, so that he or she can be looking forward to the event, too.